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White Kidney Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

White Kidney Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

White kidney beans are a nutritious legume known for their high protein and fiber content, making them an excellent choice for plant-based diets. They are versatile in cooking and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Also known as:
Cannellini beansWhite beans
Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginCentral and South America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories333 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber25g
Total84.8g
Protein
24g(28%)
Fats
0.8g(1%)
Carbohydrates
60g(71%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.2 mg (17%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2 mg (13%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.4 mg (8%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Folate130 µg (33%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0 mgVitamin A: 0 µgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium28 mg (2%)
Iron3.7 mg (20%)
Magnesium50 mg (12%)
Phosphorus400 mg (57%)
Potassium1400 mg (30%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese0.6 mg (30%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0 µg

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, white kidney beans help promote digestive health and can aid in weight management by increasing satiety.
High in protein, they provide essential amino acids, making them a great meat alternative for vegetarians and vegans.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw or undercooked beans contain lectins, which can be toxic. Always cook beans thoroughly to eliminate these compounds.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak beans overnight and cook them thoroughly to ensure they are safe to eat. They can be added to soups, stews, and salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose beans that are uniform in color and free from cracks or blemishes.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Weight management
Blood sugar regulation
Bioactive Compounds
Phytochemicals

Compounds that provide antioxidant effects and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

How to Consume
Cooked, in salads, soups, or as a puree
Did you know?

"White kidney beans are often used in Italian cuisine, particularly in dishes like minestrone soup."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: All beans are the same.
RealityReality: Different beans have varying nutritional profiles and health benefits.
MythMyth: Beans cause gas.
RealityReality: While beans can cause gas, soaking and cooking them properly can reduce this effect.
MythMyth: You can't eat beans if you're on a low-carb diet.
RealityReality: Beans are high in fiber and protein, making them a healthy choice even in moderation on low-carb diets.

Healthy Recipes

White Kidney Bean Salad with Avocado and Lime

A refreshing salad combining creamy avocado and zesty lime with protein-packed white kidney beans, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the white kidney beans, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Creamy White Kidney Bean Hummus

A healthy twist on traditional hummus, this creamy dip uses white kidney beans for a protein boost and is perfect for snacking with veggies or whole-grain pita.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine the white kidney beans, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Season with salt and serve with fresh veggies or pita chips.

White Kidney Bean and Spinach Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup packed with white kidney beans and fresh spinach, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth, white kidney beans, and thyme; bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in spinach and simmer for 10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

White Kidney Bean and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of white kidney beans, quinoa, and spices, making for a filling and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, white kidney beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture, top with cheese if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

White Kidney Bean and Sweet Potato Curry

A flavorful and warming curry featuring white kidney beans and sweet potatoes, served over brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add sweet potato and curry powder, cooking for a few minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in coconut milk and white kidney beans, simmer until sweet potato is tender, and season with salt.

White Kidney Bean Tacos with Mango Salsa

Healthy tacos filled with seasoned white kidney beans and topped with a refreshing mango salsa for a delicious twist on taco night.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat white kidney beans with taco seasoning until warmed through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for salsa.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos with beans and top with mango salsa before serving.

Baked White Kidney Bean Falafel

A healthier version of falafel made with white kidney beans, baked to perfection and served with a tangy tahini sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. 2. In a food processor, blend white kidney beans, parsley, onion, garlic, cumin, flour, salt, and pepper until combined.
  3. 3. Form into balls and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

White Kidney Bean and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A nourishing bowl filled with roasted vegetables and white kidney beans, drizzled with a lemon-tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice and tahini to create a dressing.
  3. 3. Combine roasted vegetables and white kidney beans, drizzle with dressing, and serve.

White Kidney Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring white kidney beans and nutrient-rich kale, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add kale and cook until wilted, then stir in white kidney beans and soy sauce.
  3. 3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

White Kidney Bean and Tomato Bruschetta

A delicious appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a mixture of white kidney beans, fresh tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices whole-grain bread
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread slices until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix white kidney beans, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top each slice of bread with the bean mixture and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are white kidney beans safe to eat raw?

No, raw white kidney beans contain lectins that can be toxic. Always cook them thoroughly.

How do I cook white kidney beans?

Soak them overnight, then boil for 1-2 hours until tender.

What are the health benefits of white kidney beans?

They are high in protein and fiber, which can aid in digestion and weight management.

Can I use canned white kidney beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans are pre-cooked and can be used directly in recipes.

How should I store dried white kidney beans?

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Do white kidney beans contain gluten?

No, they are naturally gluten-free.

How can I incorporate white kidney beans into my diet?

Add them to salads, soups, or use them as a meat substitute in various dishes.

What is the glycemic index of white kidney beans?

They have a low glycemic index of 29, making them suitable for blood sugar control.